Spanish National Research Council (CSIC)

The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), is the largest public institution dedicated to research in Spain and the third largest in Europe. Its main objective is to develop and promote research that will help bring about scientific and technological progress.

The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), founded on November 24, 1939, assumed the responsibilities and assets of the previous Spanish institution, the Junta para Ampliación de Estudios (JAE), following a charter published on November 28, 1939. This charter established CSIC’s foundation in scientific research within Spain, with an early focus on collaboration with universities.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, CSIC grew extensively across Spain, establishing numerous research centers and institutes nationwide. Additionally, it expanded internationally by opening its first foreign office in Rome, Italy. In 1977, following Spain's transition to democracy, new legislation marked a significant change in CSIC’s framework, laying a legal foundation for future developments and reforms. CSIC continues to be an essential institution in advancing scientific research and innovation within Spain and globally.